Job Title: Vice President of Engineering

Location: Erie Co, NY
Department: Executive Leadership
Reports To: General Manager/President

About Us

We are a next-generation aerospace company operating on a decentralized model—leveraging global talent, high mix/low volume custom made-to-order manufacturing, and collaboration to design, build, and scale aerospace components. Our mission is to revolutionize aerospace by removing traditional barriers, embracing autonomy, and delivering high-performance solutions at a rapid pace.

Position Summary

The Vice President of Engineering is responsible for leading the engineering function across product development, manufacturing/sustaining engineering, technical documentation, and production support. This role ensures the delivery of innovative, high-quality solutions through integrated Business Unit teams and cross-functional collaboration. The VP of Engineering drives strategic initiatives, oversees project execution, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence. This position is a key member of the executive leadership team and plays a critical role in shaping the company’s future.

Key Responsibilities

·       Lead and manage engineering teams across R&D, manufacturing engineering, and project engineering.

·       Guide the design and development of new products, including material selection, specifications, and testing.

·       Oversee project management processes to ensure timely and budget-conscious delivery.

·       Develop and maintain engineering processes aligned with industry standards (e.g., PPAP, Configuration Management).

·       Conduct internal and customer-attended design reviews; assess compliance with customer specifications.

·       Drive continuous improvement in product and process design to enhance quality and reduce cycle time.

·       Provide technical direction and support to procurement, quality assurance, drafting, and production teams.

·       Maintain and improve digital databases of drawings and specifications.

·       Administer Engineering Test Lab and Prototype Shop operations.

·       Ensure engineering analysis of returned products and failures.

·       Approve final drawings, specifications, test plans, and engineering orders.

·       Plan and manage R&D projects and new product line development.

·       Lead efforts in patent acquisition and intellectual property management.

·       Develop and track KPIs for engineering performance.

·       Hire, train, and evaluate engineering personnel; foster a high-performance culture.

·       Ensure compliance with the company’s Code of Conduct and ethics.

·       Represent the company with customers and suppliers, providing field support and technical expertise.

·       Participate in strategic planning and executive reviews as needed.

Qualifications

·       Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.

·       Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering experience, including new product design and development.

·       At least 3 years of engineering management or team leadership experience.

·       Experience in aerospace or engineered components

·       Familiarity with ASME/ANSI drawing standards and manufacturing practices.

·       Strong background in project management and technical documentation.

·       Strategic leadership and technical vision.

·       Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

·       Proven ability to develop and mentor engineering talent.

·       High ethical standards and integrity.

·       Effective cross-functional collaboration.

·       Strong organizational and decision-making skills.

·       Experience with CAD systems and engineering databases.

·       Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive innovation.

Preferred:

·       Master’s in engineering degree

·       Willing to relocate for future promotions to other US locations.

Why Join Us

·       Be part of a pioneering aerospace company challenging traditional paradigms.

·       Work in a hands-on, on-site environment with some of the brightest minds across aerospace, tech, and manufacturing.

·       Competitive compensation, equity options, and global collaboration.

·       Career growth to be General Manager/President in one of our 65 divisions across the US.

·       Relocation expenses covered.

·       Compensation: $200K+ base, bonus, and a generous stock option plan in a publicly traded company. Total compensation package will exceed $400K annually.